The Nice and Not-so-nice

Area Manager popped in today for a late afternoon coffee-and-chat. The first thing he did was apologise for the fact that I’m having to run all my decisions through him, per Head Office instructions. Then he praised me for all my pre-Hallowe’en efforts, which is ironic because I pushed ahead with all that without even mentioning it to him beforehand. Then we ate custard donuts, then he said ‘Look, as far as I’m concerned, you didn’t do anything wrong. They’re not even checking what you send me, I just have to let them know that you’re sticking to the plan and obeying instructions. Give it another two weeks and they’ll have forgotten anything ever happened, so just carry on as you are mate, and I’ll send them weekly e-mails saying you’re being a good boy.’

Not sure how I feel about any of that, but at least he seems to be on my side.

Monday, because of the totally ludicrous way that our systems of employment work, will be Martha’s last day as a member of staff. I have to say I’m very sad to be losing her. She’s efficient, intelligent, supportive; doesn’t moan, doesn’t gossip, doesn’t turn up late or sneak off early, and she’s the only person employed at any of my four garages who I haven’t had to speak to about ‘use of mobile phones while working’. I shall miss her, and so will the customers, I suspect. We’re sending her off by having a very childish party from 3-5pm (which tend to be the quietest hours) and I’m delighted that all the other members of staff are coming in to say goodbye. I suppose, as her manager, it’s on me to make a little speech and make her feel appreciated.

How about this as a first draft: “Martha is a selfish cow. She’s dropping us in the shit just so she can train up as a medical professional and spend the rest of her life helping people who need help. I mean – what’s she doing? Who would give up the life of a diesel-smelling forecourt and replace it with a satisfying career in nursing? Weirdo…”

I can’t remember if I mentioned it, but Those Above Me, in their infinite wisdom, decided we’re not allowed to replace her, seeing this as an opportunity to ‘streamline the workforce’ and ‘save on expenditure’. Easy for them to say – they’re not the ones who have to cover the holes in the schedule. I’ve managed to juggle the rotas so that everyone gains a little by her departure, without being over-burdened with extra hours, but it’s not been an easy task.

Anyway – I’ve mentioned work stuff A LOT this week, so tomorrow’s blog will be about jam.

RC 25-10-19